grief resources

Grief stinks. It's unfair, it's something you had no control over, and it's something that you should not have to deal with as a kid. There may be some days when all you can think about is what stinks. Make a list. Write down all of the things about your loss that stink. You can use the attached sheet to make your list (print double-sided).

Get it all out.

Once you're done, flip the paper over and make a list of any and all good things that have come from your loss. Have you met anyone that you wouldn't have before your loss? Have you grown closer to anyone? Have you changed in a positive way? Write down as many as you can.

Now, keep that list around. When you're having a really tough day revisit the "good things." Down the road, make both lists again. Has anything changed? Have you discovered new things that stink? New things that have been good?

This list is yours. You can keep it to yourself or share it with someone you love, like a family member or a really close friend. It may help them understand when you're having a tough day and give them some insight into what upsets you that may not upset someone who doesn't have a loss. 

View and print the Grief Stinks list (PDF)